Explore the foothills of the Grootberg Massif and the Etendeka Conservancy on this 3- or 4-day guided hike. A unique and awe-inspiring location with endless views and wide open spaces at every turn. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Kaokoveld: a place of pristine desert landscapes and adapted wildlife.
Hike this remote area that few will ever get to see. Your expert guide will share his knowledge and passion, identifying spoor, animals, birds and plant species along the way. Wildlife sightings include zebra, oryx and steenbok and, if you're lucky, the rare desert-adapted elephant and black rhino.
It’s also possible on a two night option, but go on and do all three nights. You’ll thank us later. It’s soul satisfying.
Day 1: River Camp - dinner
Day 2: Hill Camp - fully inclusive
Day 3: Hill Camp - fully inclusive
Day 4: Departure - breakfast
( 1 night )
Arrive at the pick-up point at Palmwag Lodge. Sort your day pack and fill your water bottle. Hiking boots on. You meet with your guide and then you are off.
Start your walk from Palmwag Lodge into the Etendeka Concession. You will walk for 2 to 3 hours to your overnight camp. It starts by introducing you to the incredible scenery over open vistas to a backdrop of rocky plains and the sun setting on the horizon. Explore the small wonders as you learn of the adapted flora and fauna you come across. Watch as nature begins to unveil itself.
Tip: Keep your camera and binoculars ready at all times. You’ll want to capture another panoramic shot and check the incredible birdlife up close.
Settle in at camp, freshen up and enjoy the last rays of the sun as they disappear while you sit around the camp fire as dinner is prepared. Dine beneath the stars and fall asleep to the sounds of the surrounding wilderness.
( 1 night )
Wake up to the sun rising over the same incredible scenery. The morning light is magical and it’s enjoyed with a cup of coffee and that seemingly endless view. There’s time for a full cooked breakfast before you pack your snacks and top up your water bottles for the day.
Track animal spoor, let nature’s tale unfold, while your guide shares with you the information on the area. You’ll have a stop en route for refreshments and to rest your legs with the aim of reaching Hill Camp by early afternoon. Then it’s lunch and time for rest and siesta. Easy to do in a spot as peaceful as this. You’ll be covering a distance of 15km – 20km so it’s roughly 6 to 7 hours walking. There are stops along the way and the schedule can be tweaked to match your fitness level.
Your camp is situated on top of Crystal Mountain, so you know the setting is surreal and the sunset a jaw-dropper. Explore the plateau as the sun goes down with views in every direction. Pinch yourself. This place is real and you got here on foot. Pat on the back.
Dinner around the fire and another night of falling asleep beneath a dark starry sky.
( 1 night )
It’s another great start to the day waking up perched on the edge of the plateau. Warm beverage in hand, again you have to remind yourself where you are. It’s an early rise as the sun comes up. Then you’re off on a 5 to 6 hour walk around Crystal Mountain and into the river valley below. You’ll be back at camp for lunch and some down-time. While away the afternoon getting lost in the endless view yet again. It just never gets old.
In the afternoon explore the area with your guide who will reveal more of the magic the untrained eye doesn’t see. Dinner around the fire and sleep out under the stars again. We know you’re thinking you’d stay forever if you could. Luckily time seems to stand still as you watch the twinkling sky above. Sweet dreams.
Note: If you opt for only doing a 2 night walking trail, this day you will enjoy only a short morning walk and then transfer to Etendeka Mountain Camp, where you can spend the night or be dropped off at your vehicle for your onward travel plans.
Rise and delight in the new day. It’s a short walk to Etendeka Mountain Camp where your guided hiking trail ends. You’ll be taken by scenic transfer back to Palmwag Lodge to collect your vehicle or if you still haven’t had enough of this unbelievable place… stay another night at the Etendeka Mountain Camp. Linger just a little longer.
3 nights From 14,745 per person (minimum of 2 people)
"Breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences"
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Everything was excellently planned by Ashlee at Namibia Tours & Safaris.
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